Recent Blog Articles
Can long COVID affect the gut?
When replenishing fluids, does milk beat water?
Safe, joyful movement for people of all weights
Slowing down racing thoughts
Are women turning to cannabis for menopause symptom relief?
3 ways to create community and counter loneliness
Helping children make friends: What parents can do
Can electrical brain stimulation boost attention, memory, and more?
Palliative care frightens some people: Here’s how it helps
Parents don't always realize that their teen is suicidal
By the way, doctor: What can I do about earwax buildup?
Q. My doctor recently noticed lots of wax in my ear, almost blocking the canal. How did this happen? What should I do about it?
A. If the wax in your ear isn't causing any trouble, you needn't do anything about it. Earwax (cerumen) is made in the external auditory canal. Its function is protective. Normally, it forms a film on the surface of the skin lining the canal, helping shield the canal from damage by water, infection, or trauma. Earwax also traps particles, such as dust, and helps eliminate bacteria that could damage the canal or the delicate eardrum (tympanic membrane).
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!
